Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I represent two counties, Cavan and Monaghan, that have had the benefit of a LEADER programme since 1991. We were one of the pilot projects that were selected by the then Fianna Fáil Government following the introduction of the LEADER programme at European level by the former Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Ray MacSharry. I have seen the benefits of that investment during successive programmes.

I am concerned that the roll-out of funding under the current programme, which runs from 2014 to 2020, has been slow. I am very anxious for the maximum drawdown to occur and for the Government to be in a position to draw down the total funding allocated by the European Commission in respect of this very important programme, which is critical for rural communities. I ask the Minister to ensure there is impetus in the drawdown of funding and the approval of projects.

See this speech in context